GM recalls 200K more SUVs for fire risk
- Expands recall last year of 250%2C000 in snow states where salt is used on roads
- Recall broadened after talks with NHTSA
- Power window module can short out
General Motors is recalling nearly 200,000 midsize SUVs because the master power door and window module in the driver's door can short out and catch fire.
Because the risk is serious enough -- and can happen when the truck is not in use -- GM says owners should park the trucks outdoors until the module is repaired, according to documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The recall expands -- after talks with the NHTSA -- a GM recall last August of 249,260 of the same trucks, but only those sold or registered in 20 Snow Belt states where salt is used on the roads.
The recall covers the remaining 193,652 of the mechanically similar 2006 and 2007 SUVs sold under five nameplates:
• 2006-07 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Ruick Rainier, Saab 9-7x and Isuzu Ascender.
• 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL.
In the new action, GM also is recalling more than 38,000 of the trucks in use outside the U.S.
The problem is one that has prompted several recalls by multiple makers over the years: Moisture gets into the driver's door and corrodes the connections and electronics in the module that control power locks and all the power windows.
That can cause a short circuit and overheating, which can lead to an electrical melting smell, smoke from the door or, worst case, a fire. As of last August, GM knew of 28 incidents and no injuries. The documents did not specify the number of complaints or incidents.
You may or may not get a warning when the locks or windows work intermittently or not at all..
GM is notifying owners and dealers will check the module. If it is working OK, GM will put a moisture protection coating on the electronics; if not, GM will replace it.
More information: Buick at 1-800-521-7300, Chevy at 1-866-694-6546, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, Isuzu at 1-800-255-6727, and SAAB at 1-855-880-0808.